David Flack On The Best Food And Creative Fuel In Naarm/Melbourne

Melbourne Art Fair spoke to Founder/Principal of Flack Studio and Fair Ambassador, David Flack, about a selection of his favourite places in the city.

Where would you take someone to give them a good first impression of the city?

I would plan a day around food and art. There is so much talent residing here, I just love to be able take newcomers to places like Collingwood yards, Gertrude Contemporary, or any of the multitude of commercial galleries. For food, most of my favourite places are in Fitzroy, Collingwood & Brunswick.

Which dinner spot do you find yourself frequenting?

Old Palm Liquor, Brunswick East – They really know how to elevate simple dishes.
Tipo 00, Little Bourke St, Melbourne CBD –  Amazing food and service.

Tipo 00. Photo: Jake Roden.

Favourite bar to continue the festivities after a day of exploring at the Fair?

Amarillo, Fiztroy – great drinks, music and crowd.

Most underrated spot in Melbourne?

Royal Oak Hotel, Richmond – Quality classical pub food and great drinks.
Kenzan, Collins Place, Melbourne CBD – High quality Japanese food and quality service.

Amarillo. Photo: Pete Dillon.

Where do you go to get creatively inspired?

When I’m not travelling, I’d say spending time in our studio’s library helps me stay inspired. Besides people, books are our number one resource. We rely heavily on books at the commencement of a project. The team is encouraged to utilise the books in our library to explore and flesh out ideas. Some of my favourite bookshops to add to our ever expanding library are Bookshop By Uro, Avenue Book Store and Happy Valley.

Photo: Courtesy of Flack Studio.

What makes Melbourne the best city to explore and collect art?

Melbourne’s inner city is exceptionally accessible. Virtually everything is within a comfortable walking distance, or conveniently reachable by a short drive or even a tram ride. We’re fortunate that the Studio is right in the heart of Fitzroy, surrounded by incredible galleries such as Sutton Gallery, THIS IS NO FANTASY, FUTURES and Oigåll Projects, all within easy walking distance. It encourages us to actively explore and visit these amazing spaces and interact with the artists and gallerists.

This year, Melbourne Art Fair’s Piazza Bistro is designed by Flack Studio. Featuring Piper-Heidsieck Champagne, the space transforms into a whimsically opulent French Riviera bistro featuring artworks by Darren Sylvester.

Secure tickets to the Fair here.